You know that one corner in your living room that just kind of feels… empty? Like, it’s not big enough for a chair, but it’s too prominent to ignore? A small corner fireplace could be exactly what that space needs. Seriously, it’s such an underrated way to make your living room feel warm, cozy, and totally put-together. Think about it: not only does it add a beautiful focal point to the room, but it also gives that neglected corner a real purpose.
And here’s the best part—corner fireplaces are perfect for small spaces because they don’t take up much room. You don’t need to rearrange your entire layout or sacrifice valuable floor space to make it work. Plus, whether your vibe is modern, rustic, or somewhere in between, there’s a corner fireplace out there that’ll fit your style like a glove. Imagine the glow of a fire in the evenings, turning your living room into a cozy retreat. Honestly, it’s one of those upgrades that’s practical, stylish, and surprisingly easy to pull off.
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Choosing the Right Fireplace Style for Your Space
Picking the right corner fireplace is all about matching it to your space and personal style. Whether you love a sleek, modern look, a cozy rustic vibe, or something timeless and traditional, there’s a design that will fit right in with your existing decor.
Traditional Charm – If your home leans toward a classic aesthetic, a fireplace with a detailed mantel, brick or stone surround, and warm, neutral tones will complement the space beautifully. Think of rich wood finishes, elegant molding, and a cozy, inviting feel.
Modern Minimalist – For a more contemporary space, a streamlined fireplace with a clean, simple design works best. Look for options with smooth finishes, neutral or monochrome colors, and glass-enclosed flames for a sleek, upscale vibe. This works well for a luxurious vibe.
Rustic and Cozy – Love that cabin-in-the-woods feel? A corner fireplace with a reclaimed wood mantel, stacked stone, or even a vintage-inspired stove can create that warm, welcoming atmosphere. It pairs well with natural textures and earth-toned furnishings. This works well with rustic floating shelves.
Now, beyond just looks, you’ll want to think about how your furniture is arranged. A corner fireplace naturally shifts the focal point of the room, so you may need to adjust your seating to keep everything feeling balanced.
Arranging chairs or a sofa to face or slightly angle toward the fireplace will create a cozy gathering spot. If your TV is in the same area, consider mounting it above the fireplace or placing it on an adjacent wall to avoid competition between the two focal points.
At the end of the day, the right fireplace should enhance your space—both in style and function—without making the room feel crowded.
Installing a Corner Fireplace: What You Need to Know
Step 1: Choosing the Right Type of Fireplace for Easy Installation
There are four main types of fireplaces, each with its own installation process and cost considerations:
- Electric Fireplaces – The easiest option by far. These require no chimney, no venting, and minimal setup. Simply place the unit in your chosen corner, plug it in, and you’re good to go. Installation cost: $200–$2,000, depending on the model.
- Gas Fireplaces – A great option for a real flame without the hassle of wood-burning. However, you’ll need access to a gas line and proper venting, which can require professional installation. If you already have a gas hookup nearby, it’s easier and more affordable. Installation cost: $2,000–$6,000, depending on complexity.
- Ethanol Fireplaces – These are vent-free, making them another easy-to-install option. They burn clean and don’t require a chimney, but they do need proper placement away from flammable materials. Installation cost: $500–$3,000.
- Wood-Burning Fireplaces – The most traditional (and labor-intensive) option. These require a chimney or vent system to safely remove smoke and gases. If your home already has a chimney, installation is easier. Otherwise, adding one can be a significant investment. Installation cost: $4,000–$10,000+, especially if a chimney needs to be built.
Step 2: Planning for the Chimney and Venting
If you’re going with a wood-burning or vented gas fireplace, the chimney or vent placement is a key factor:
- Existing Chimney: If your home already has a chimney, you may be able to connect your new fireplace to it, making installation easier and more cost-effective.
- New Chimney: If you’re adding a chimney from scratch, expect additional structural modifications, which can drive up costs.
- Direct Venting: Some gas fireplaces use a direct vent system, which allows exhaust gases to exit through an exterior wall rather than needing a full chimney. This is a great compromise between aesthetics and practicality.
- Vent-Free Options: Electric, ethanol, and some gas models don’t require venting, making them ideal for homes where structural changes aren’t possible.
DIY vs. Professional Installation
- Electric and ethanol fireplaces can be installed by homeowners with basic tools.
- Gas fireplaces require professional installation to ensure safe connections.
- Wood-burning fireplaces need significant construction work, so hiring a contractor is highly recommended.
Creative Small Corner Fireplace Ideas
1. Wall-Mounted Electric Fireplace – Sleek and Space-Efficient
If you want the cozy ambiance of a fireplace but don’t have room for a bulky structure, a wall-mounted electric fireplace is a perfect solution. These units are ultra-slim, easy to install, and require no chimney or venting.
- Why it works: Since it’s mounted on the wall rather than taking up floor space, it’s great for small living rooms where every square foot counts.
- Customization options: Many models come with adjustable flame colors, brightness settings, and even built-in heating options, allowing you to set the mood to match the season.
- Best placement: Above a media console, a floating shelf, or even integrated into an accent wall for a sleek, modern look.
This style works well in contemporary spaces where clean lines and minimalistic decor take center stage.
2. Built-in Corner Fireplace with Floating Shelves – Integrated Storage and Warmth
A built-in corner fireplace seamlessly blends into your living space, making it feel like an intentional design element rather than an afterthought. Adding floating shelves above or beside it can take it to the next level, offering both warmth and functional storage.
- Why it works: It maximizes an unused corner while keeping the space visually open. Instead of having a fireplace that stands alone, it becomes part of a built-in feature wall.
- Customization options: You can choose from different materials like wood, metal, or glass for the shelving to match your decor. LED lighting under the shelves can add an extra layer of warmth and sophistication.
- Best placement: Ideal for homes with limited wall space where combining storage and ambiance is a priority. It’s great for keeping books, decor, or even small plants displayed in a stylish way.
This idea is perfect for those who love a balance between function and aesthetics, making the fireplace both practical and decorative.
3. Brick or Stone Surround for a Rustic Look – Natural Textures for a Cozy Ambiance
For a timeless, warm, and inviting look, a brick or stone surround is a fantastic choice. Whether you go for an exposed red brick style or a stacked stone facade, these materials instantly make the space feel cozier.
- Why it works: Natural materials like brick and stone add texture and depth, making even a small fireplace look grand and full of character.
- Customization options: You can opt for whitewashed brick for a softer, farmhouse look, or dark, rugged stone for a cabin-inspired feel. If you want a more polished style, smooth-cut limestone or marble can bring an upscale elegance.
- Best placement: Works best in traditional, rustic, or farmhouse-style homes where earthy tones and textures complement the surrounding decor.
Pair it with a wooden mantel for a more traditional look, or go mantel-free for a raw, industrial-inspired aesthetic. Either way, it creates a focal point that instantly makes the room feel warmer and more inviting.
4. Glass-Enclosed Corner Fireplace – Contemporary Elegance
A glass-enclosed fireplace is a great way to add a sleek, modern touch to a small space while keeping the room feeling open and airy. These fireplaces often feature a frameless or minimal frame design, allowing the flames to take center stage.
- Why it works: The glass keeps the fireplace looking light and unobtrusive, making it ideal for small or minimalist spaces.
- Customization options: You can choose from different styles, including see-through, tinted, or frosted glass to match your decor. Some models even allow you to control the flame intensity and color via a remote or app.
- Best placement: Works well in modern, contemporary, or Scandinavian-style living rooms. It’s especially effective in spaces with lots of natural light, as the glass reflects and enhances the overall brightness.
For an ultra-modern feel, consider pairing it with a concrete or black metal surround to create a bold statement.
5. Double-Sided Corner Fireplace – Open-Concept Divider
If you have an open-concept space and want a fireplace that can be enjoyed from multiple angles, a double-sided corner fireplace is the way to go. This design allows the fireplace to be visible from two different areas, making it a functional room divider that still keeps the space feeling connected.
- Why it works: It helps define different zones in an open-concept living space while keeping a natural flow between rooms. You get to enjoy the fire from multiple vantage points, whether you’re in the living room, dining area, or even the kitchen.
- Customization options: Choose between frameless glass for a sleek, contemporary look or a traditional mantel and surround for a more classic feel.
- Best placement: Ideal for homes with an open-plan layout, especially between the living room and dining area. It also works well in lofts or multi-purpose spaces where a fireplace can serve as both a focal point and a subtle room separator.
This option is great for homeowners who want something unique and high-impact while maintaining a sense of openness in their home.
Conclusion
A small corner fireplace isn’t just a way to add warmth to your living room—it’s a design feature that can completely transform the space. Whether you go for a sleek wall-mounted electric model, a built-in fireplace with floating shelves, or a rustic stone surround, the right choice will turn an overlooked corner into the heart of the room.
Beyond aesthetics, the practical benefits are just as appealing. A well-placed corner fireplace makes smart use of space, enhances the ambiance, and can even add value to your home. And with so many options—vented or vent-free, electric, gas, wood-burning, or ethanol—you can find one that fits your lifestyle and budget.
If you’re looking for a stylish and space-saving way to upgrade your living room, a corner fireplace is one of the best investments you can make. With the right design and setup, you’ll create a cozy, inviting atmosphere that makes every moment spent at home even better.